it was timely

USAGE SUMMARY

"it was timely" is a correct and usable part of a sentence in written English.
It typically means that something happened at the right time or on time. For example: I was just about to ask for help when the answer arrived – it was timely.

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

42 human-written examples

It was timely, too.

The Guardian - Sport

"It was timely and encouraging.

The Guardian

And it was timely and pertinent, too, back in 1973.

The Guardian - Books

It wasn't the most original quip, but it was timely.

The New Yorker

It was timely and earnest, though seldom exciting.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Chelsea's attack had not been particularly boastful or overpowering, but it was timely.

The New York Times - Sports

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

18 human-written examples

At four years old, it is timely to assess its evolution and performance to date.

BMC International Health and Human Rights

It is timely.

The New York Times - Arts

And it is timely.

The New York Times - Books

"I think it's timely.

The Guardian

It's timely to return to Brel.

The Guardian - Music

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "it was timely" to emphasize that an event or action occurred at a particularly suitable or advantageous moment. This can add impact to your writing by highlighting the importance of timing.

Common error

Avoid using "it was timely" simply to mean "it was on time". The phrase implies more than just punctuality; it suggests that the timing was particularly beneficial or significant. If timing wasn't especially advantageous, choose a simpler expression.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "it was timely" functions as a commentary on the suitability of the timing of an event or action. It suggests that the event occurred at a particularly opportune or advantageous moment. This usage is supported by Ludwig AI which deems the phrase correct and usable.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

35%

Science

25%

Formal & Business

15%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

10%

Wiki

8%

Reference

7%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "it was timely" is a versatile phrase used to emphasize the favorable timing of an event, suggesting it occurred at a particularly opportune or advantageous moment. As Ludwig AI confirms, the expression is grammatically correct and widely used, particularly in News & Media. While "it was timely" is suitable for various contexts, more formal settings may benefit from synonyms like "it was opportune". Remember, the phrase suggests more than just punctuality; it implies that the timing was significantly beneficial.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

it was opportune

Focuses on the favorable circumstances of the timing.

it was well-timed

Highlights the excellent timing of the event or action.

it was propitious

Emphasizes the favorable or auspicious nature of the timing.

the timing was perfect

Stresses that the timing could not have been better.

it happened at the right moment

Indicates that the event occurred at the most suitable time.

it could not have come at a better time

Emphasizes the ideal timing of the event.

it was auspicious

Focuses on the fortunate and promising nature of the timing.

it was providential

Implies that the good timing was divinely ordained or fortunate.

the moment was ripe

Suggests that conditions were ideal for the event to occur.

it was seasonable

Implies the event was suitable or appropriate for the particular season or time.

FAQs

How can I use "it was timely" in a sentence?

Use "it was timely" to indicate that something happened at a particularly opportune moment. For example, "The funding arrived just as we were running out of resources; "it was timely"".

What's a good alternative to "it was timely"?

Alternatives include "it was opportune", "it was well-timed", or "it happened at the right moment". The best choice depends on the specific nuance you wish to convey.

Is "it was timely" formal or informal?

"It was timely" is generally considered suitable for both formal and informal contexts. However, very formal settings might benefit from a more sophisticated synonym, like "it was opportune".

What does "it was timely" imply beyond just being on time?

"It was timely" suggests that the timing was not only punctual but also particularly beneficial or advantageous. It implies that the event's occurrence at that specific moment made a positive difference.